Print

Turkish Bread

Turkish Bread
Print Recipe

Bake soft, fluffy, and authentic Turkish Bread at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Featuring a slightly crispy crust and airy interior, this bread is perfect for dipping, serving with mezes, or enjoying fresh. Suitable for beginners and adaptable with variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (about 440 grams)
  • 1 1/4 cups warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
  • 2 teaspoons instant yeast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional Toppings

  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds or nigella seeds (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: Mix warm water, sugar, and instant yeast in a bowl. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
  2. Mix the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
  3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic to develop gluten.
  4. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a cloth, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1.5 hours until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the Bread: Gently punch down the dough to release air, shape into a round or oval loaf, and transfer it onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  6. Second Rise: Cover the shaped dough and allow it to rise again for 30 to 45 minutes until noticeably puffy.
  7. Add Toppings and Bake: Brush dough lightly with olive oil, sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown and crisp.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove bread from oven and cool on a wire rack for 15 to 20 minutes before slicing to allow the crumb to set.

Notes

  • Use warm water that is warm to the touch, not hot, to activate yeast properly.
  • Knead thoroughly to develop gluten for the perfect airy texture.
  • Be patient and allow the dough to rise fully twice for the best fluffiness.
  • Do not omit olive oil, as it adds moisture and richness to the bread.
  • Sprinkle sesame or nigella seeds for traditional authentic flavor and texture.
  • Preheat the oven well to create a crispy yet tender crust.

Nutrition

Keywords: Turkish bread, homemade bread, soft bread, fluffy bread, traditional bread, easy bread recipe, baking bread

Find it online: https://mealsbysarah.com/turkish-bread/